Go North East has started an “extensive trial” of various electric bus models ahead of what it says will likely be more of the type joining its fleet beyond nine Yutong E10s that are already on order.
Go North East currently has an Optare Metrocity EV electric bus demonstrator (pictured) in service around Gateshead and Newcastle. That vehicle’s use will potentially be followed by the evaluation of other zero-emission products.
Managing Director Martijn Gilbert says: “The coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has shown us how clean the air can be with fewer polluting vehicles on the road. Public transport has an important role to play in taking inefficient single-occupancy cars off the road by providing more green travel choices.
“We are now underway with out next phase of extensive electric bus trials, which may see us add to the existing nine we have on order. It is great to have the Optare Metrocity EV on trial – a British-built product from a north of England manufacturer.”
The Yutong E10s are being purchased with financial support from the government’s Ultra Low Emission Bus fund. They are due to arrive with GNE later this year and will be supplied by agent Pelican Bus and Coach.
